Chemotherapy Services

Chemotherapy: Comprehensive Cancer Treatment

What is Chemotherapy? 

Chemotherapy is an advanced treatment for cancer that employs powerful anti-cancer drugs to destroy or inhibit the growth of cancerous cells. This systemic treatment circulates through the bloodstream, targeting cancer cells throughout the body.

Why Choose Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy serves various purposes in cancer treatment, including:

Cure the Cancer: As a primary intervention for certain types of cancers, such as lymphomas and leukemias.

Neoadjuvant Treatment:  Administered before other therapies to reduce the size of a tumor, enhancing the effectiveness of subsequent surgery or radiation therapy.

Adjuvant Treatment: Given after other treatments to eradicate any hidden cancer cells and lower the chances of recurrence.

Palliative Care: Utilized in advanced cases to shrink tumors causing pain or discomfort, thereby improving the patient’s quality of life.

Our Services Include:

• Tailored Chemotherapy treatments for various cancers 
• Immunotherapy options to boost the body’s immune response 
• Port placement for efficient administration of chemotherapy 
• Comfortable chemotherapy rooms designed for patient care 

How is Chemotherapy Administered?

The method of administration of chemotherapy varies based on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the specific drugs prescribed. Common delivery methods include:

• Intravenous (IV) Infusion: The most prevalent method, where drugs are delivered directly into a vein through a needle, catheter, or port. 
• Oral Medications: Taken in the form of pills, capsules, or liquids. 
• Injections: Administered as a shot into a muscle or just under the skin. 
• Topical Treatments: Creams or gels applied to the skin for specific dermatological cancers. 
• Direct Administration: Injected into body cavities such as the bladder (intravesical) or abdomen (intraperitoneal). 

Chemotherapy regimens typically follow a cycle of treatment followed by a rest period, allowing healthy cells to recover.

**Note:** We do not provide radiation therapy. 

Understanding Side Effects

Since chemotherapy targets rapidly growing cancer cells, it can also affect normal, fast-growing cells in the body. While most side effects are temporary and diminish after treatment, some may persist. Common side effects include:

• Fatigue 
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Hair Loss 
• Low Blood Cell Counts: Increasing susceptibility to infections, bruising, and anemia. 
• Mouth and Throat Sores 
• Digestive Issues: Diarrhea or constipation. 
• Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): Numbness or tingling in extremities. 
• Cognitive Challenges: “Chemo brain” affecting memory and concentration. 
• Loss of Appetite and Taste Changes 

Many side effects can be managed with medication and discussion with our healthcare team.

Patient Experience & Education 

We prioritize your comfort and understanding throughout your treatment journey.

• -Process: Treatment begins with a physician’s order and is administered by our skilled nursing staff. We carefully monitor patients throughout the infusion, with options for both home and center-based care.

• Education: Our team provides comprehensive information on:
• The usage of medical equipment (pumps, vascular access devices) 
• Proper drug storage and handling 
• Recognizing and addressing potential side effects or adverse responses 
• Emergency protocols and home care coordination 

Operational Excellence for Providers and Administrators 

Our infusion services are upheld by strict clinical protocols to ensure the highest standards of care.

Documentation: Detailed records maintained, including:

• Provider orders and progress notes 
• Medication administration records (MARs) 
• Infusion start and stop times 
• Vascular access device insertion details 

Protocols: Our comprehensive guidelines include:

• Monitoring standards 
• Emergency management procedures 
• Safe compounding of sterile products 

Your Partner in Cancer Care 

Guided by Dr. Stone, our Oncologist from UCHealth, Greeley, CO. We welcome referrals from licensed Colorado providers. Our dedicated team ensures that each patient receives thorough education about their treatment regimen and compassionate care.

To inquire about our chemotherapy services, contact us today at (970) 854-2241 ext. 2058. We’re committed to providing accessible, effective, and year-round cancer treatments tailored to your needs.